How Much Is a Sheet of Plywood? Cost Factors by Type and Grade
It depends on which panel
"A sheet of plywood" covers very different products. Structural sheathing, sanded appearance panels, hardwood plywood and marine plywood are priced in entirely different ranges. Like framing lumber, structural panels are commodities, so prices change with the market.
What drives plywood price
Type
- Sheathing (CDX): structural panels for walls, roofs and subfloors.
- Sanded softwood (ACX, BCX): one smoother face for visible or painted work.
- Hardwood plywood: veneered faces such as birch, maple or oak for cabinets and furniture.
- Marine plywood: built for wet environments with high veneer quality.
- OSB: a structural panel alternative to plywood for many sheathing uses.
Thickness
Thicker panels cost more. Note that panels are sold by nominal thickness; actual thickness is often slightly less.
Grade and span rating
Structural panels carry span ratings and exposure classifications. Choose the rating your plans require.
Edge profile
Tongue-and-groove subfloor panels cost more than square-edge panels.
Treatment
Fire-retardant or preservative-treated panels are priced as specialty products.
Quantity and delivery
Full units are typically cheaper per sheet than picking individual panels. Include delivery and unloading in comparisons.
Plywood vs. OSB
OSB is often less expensive for sheathing. Plywood can perform differently with moisture exposure and fastener holding. See our OSB vs. plywood comparison.
How to compare panel quotes
- Specify type, thickness, grade, span rating, edge and treatment.
- Confirm the brand or mill if appearance matters.
- Compare cost per sheet including delivery.
- Check quote expiration.
Bottom line
Define the panel spec first. Then compare quotes on identical specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
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